The waterways around Quepos pack in Costa Rica’s best paddling adventures, all within a few miles of town. Two standout areas deserve special attention: Damas Island’s wildlife-rich mangrove channels and Manuel Antonio’s scenic coastal waters. These protected waters work perfectly for beginners, while offering enough variety to keep experienced paddlers engaged.
We love the small-group mangrove tours (max 8 people) for their expert spotting of monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Along Manuel Antonio’s coast, the morning kayak-snorkel combo delivers the perfect mix of exercise and underwater discovery.
Our favorite guided trips are listed below, each tested for quality, safety, and value.
Good To Know
- Damas Island Kayaking Tours offer guided exploration of Central America’s largest mangrove ecosystem with opportunities to spot wildlife like monkeys and birds.
- Manuel Antonio Ocean Kayak provides beginner-friendly coastal kayaking and paddleboarding tours with scenic views, round-trip transport, and equipment.
- Paddle Boarding & Waterfall Full Day Tour combines gentle paddleboarding, hidden waterfalls, and an organic farm-to-table lunch for a 5-star rated experience.
- Half-Day Mangroves Tour by Kayak highlights diverse wetland ecosystems, led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide, although some issues with guides and wildlife sightings have been reported.
- Manuel Antonio Sea Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure offers a half-day tour that combines paddling and snorkeling in the area’s coastal landscapes and vibrant coral reefs.
Damas Island Mangrove Kayaking Tour From Manuel Antonio
Oftentimes, travelers to the Manuel Antonio region embark on the Damas Island Mangrove Kayaking Tour, a captivating excursion through Central America’s largest mangrove ecosystem.
Rated 4.4 out of 5 based on 87 reviews, this family-friendly activity allows visitors to spot native wildlife like monkeys, birds, and aquatic animals.
The guided tour provides insights into the local ecosystem and history. While the tour generally receives positive feedback for its knowledgeable guides and delicious lunch, some travelers have noted issues with organization and timing changes.
Nevertheless, the Damas Island Mangrove Kayaking Tour remains a popular way to explore the region’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Damas Island Mangrove Kayaking Tour From Manuel Antonio Review
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Manuel Antonio Ocean Kayak
Rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from 65 reviews, the Manuel Antonio Ocean Kayak excursion offers travelers a beginner-friendly way to explore the beautiful coastal region of Quepos, Costa Rica.
Guided tours take guests to private beaches, with the option to kayak or paddleboard. The experience includes round-trip transportation, refreshments, and all necessary equipment like life jackets and snorkeling gear.
While most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and scenic views, some note strong currents and limited visibility for snorkeling.
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Half-Day Mangroves Tour by Kayak With a Naturalist Guide – Quepos
Although the Manuel Antonio Ocean Kayak excursion offers a scenic coastal experience, the Half-Day Mangroves Tour by Kayak With a Naturalist Guide in Quepos provides travelers with a unique opportunity to explore the area’s diverse wetland ecosystems.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 with 91% traveler recommendation, this tour highlights the incredible mangrove habitats that are home to an array of wildlife. For $70 per person, guests can paddle through the tranquil waterways, led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide.
While some past participants have reported issues with guides or wildlife sightings, the tour generally receives positive reviews for its scenic beauty and educational value.
Proper preparation and setting realistic expectations can help ensure an enjoyable mangrove kayaking experience.
Read our full review: Half-Day Mangroves Tour by Kayak With a Naturalist Guide – Quepos Review
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Damas Island Half-Day Kayak Tour by Nacarcosta – Quepos
For travelers seeking an immersive mangrove exploration in Quepos, the Damas Island Half-Day Kayak Tour by Nacarcosta offers a captivating experience.
This 1.5-hour tour takes guests through the scenic Damas Island Estuary, where they can spot diverse wildlife like monkeys, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles, and turtles.
With a 94% recommendation rate from 172 reviews, the tour boasts a Badge of Excellence and includes a garbage collection program for eco-conscious travelers.
Guides provide valuable insights, and the experience is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
While some customers noted variable wildlife visibility, the overall consensus praises the knowledgeable guides and the tranquil, immersive nature of this mangrove kayaking adventure.
Read our full review: Damas Island Half-Day Kayak Tour by Nacarcosta – Quepos Review
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Mangrove Damas Island Kayak Tours
Nestled within the serene mangroves of Damas Island, Iguana Tours offers the Mangrove Damas Island Kayak Tours, a captivating experience that allows visitors to enjoy the lush, verdant ecosystem.
The tour, highly recommended by 97% of travelers, provides a private and moderate-intensity adventure, with a local guide leading the way. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and snacks as they explore the breathtaking mangroves, with hotel pickup and drop-off in the Manuel Antonio area included.
Though not wheelchair accessible, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful and informative kayaking excursion in Costa Rica’s stunning natural landscape.
Read our full review: Mangrove Damas Island Kayak Tours Review
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Paddle Boarding & Waterfall Full Day Tour
Travelers seeking an exhilarating day of adventure in Quepos, Costa Rica can embark on the Paddle Boarding & Waterfall Full Day Tour.
This 5-star rated activity is recommended by 100% of travelers and features gentle paddleboarding in Maracas Bay, visits to hidden waterfalls for swimming and sliding, and relaxation on beautiful beaches.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, and a local organic farm-to-table lunch.
With knowledgeable guides like Ismael, Alejandro, and Roberto, this tour promises an unforgettable experience exploring Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
A moderate fitness level is required, and the tour has a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized adventure.
Read our full review: Paddle Boarding & Waterfall Full Day Tour Review
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SUP Paddle Board Manuel Antonio
Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) in Manuel Antonio offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning coastline of this renowned national park.
With a 3-hour tour, travelers can glide across the calm waters, spotting wildlife and taking in the breathtaking views. The experience includes round-trip transportation, all necessary equipment, and optional add-ons like kayaks and guides.
Recommended by 94% of past participants, this SUP adventure is a popular choice for active travelers seeking to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
At $75 per person, the tour provides excellent value and the flexibility of two daily start times to accommodate various schedules.
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Manuel Antonio Ocean Kayaking
The Manuel Antonio Ocean Kayaking tour offers visitors a chance to explore the picturesque coastline of Quepos, Costa Rica. This small-group adventure is recommended by 90% of travelers and includes kayaking, beach time, and a snack.
The tour is suitable for new kayakers, with a personalized experience capped at 10 travelers. Travelers can choose from single or double kayaks and will enjoy the guidance of knowledgeable, humorous guides like Franklin.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, hotel transportation, and even gratuities. With a minimum age of 6 and moderate physical fitness required, this kayaking experience is an excellent way to take in the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio.
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Mangrove Kayaking Adventure
Explore the serene mangrove waterways of the Damas Island estuary on this small-group kayaking adventure.
With a 4.8 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this beginner-friendly tour provides all the necessary equipment and instruction.
Spot monkeys, caiman, and exotic birds as you paddle through the scenic coastal mangroves, learning about this unique ecosystem.
Enjoy hassle-free hotel pickup, refreshments, and an included lunch.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate fitness level makes this a great option for guests in good health.
Secure your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, starting at £59.96 per person.
Read our full review: Mangrove Kayaking Adventure Review
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Coastline Paddle Board Tour
Paddle boards provide a unique way to explore the captivating coastline of Quepos. The Coastline Paddle Board Tour offers a 4.9-rated experience, with 100% of travelers recommending it.
For $76.93 per person, you’ll get snacks, bottled water, and all the necessary equipment, including the paddle board, paddle, and life vest. The tour picks up and drops off in the Quepos/Manuel Antonio area, with a maximum of 10 travelers per group.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate fitness level required makes this tour suitable for most. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, so you can plan your adventure with confidence.
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Damas Island Kayaking Mangrove Tour From Manuel Antonio
For those seeking a more immersive experience beyond the Coastline Paddle Board Tour, the Damas Island Kayaking Mangrove Tour from Manuel Antonio provides a chance to explore the captivating waterways and wildlife of the region.
This half-day tour, limited to 10 travelers, allows visitors to paddle through the lush mangroves and observe diverse marine life.
Lunch, transportation, and knowledgeable guides are included, ensuring a seamless and personalized adventure.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or limited mobility.
With a 5-star rating and 100% recommendation, this tour is an excellent way to take in Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Damas Island Kayaking Mangrove Tour From Manuel Antonio Review
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Manuel Antonio Sea Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure
Embarking on a Manuel Antonio Sea Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure allows visitors to enjoy the captivating coastal landscapes and diverse marine life of the region.
This half-day tour takes travelers along the coastline of Manuel Antonio National Park, offering the chance to paddle to Biezans Bay and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs.
Along the way, participants can observe bird-nesting islands and learn about the local biodiversity from a knowledgeable naturalist guide.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, hotel transportation, and a post-adventure lunch.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the experience is a family-friendly option, with child rates available when sharing with two paying adults.
Read our full review: Manuel Antonio Sea Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure Review
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Paddle Board Mangrove Tour
Visitors to Quepos can enjoy the serene mangrove forests on a Paddle Board Mangrove Tour.
This 5-star rated experience takes guests on a tranquil paddle through the lush mangrove ecosystem, where they’ll spot diverse wildlife from the stability of a stand-up paddleboard.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, including a paddleboard, paddle, and life vest, as well as refreshing snacks and bottled water.
Priced from $87.18 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and departs daily from the meeting point near the Super Iguana Supermarket in Quepos.
Advance booking is recommended, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start time.
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2-Hour Kayak Tour in Quepos
The 2-Hour Kayak Tour in Quepos, Costa Rica, offers visitors a chance to explore the area’s serene mangrove ecosystems from the comfort of a kayak.
At $85 per person, the tour accommodates up to 8 travelers and includes a lifejacket, brunch, refreshments, and transportation.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most participants, with guides assisting in navigating strong currents.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, though one noted a younger guide’s difficulty in finding animals.
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Kayak Tour in Quepos
Paddle 9’s kayak tour in Quepos, Costa Rica, offers a chance to take in the region’s serene mangrove ecosystems. Priced at $85 per person, this 5-person maximum tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, kayak and gear, bottled water, and fresh fruits.
The tour starts and ends at Paddle 9’s meeting point in Puntareans Province, Quepos, with pickup available in Manuel Antonio and Quepos areas. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation, and infants can join by sitting on laps. With a 5.0 rating from 1 review, this kayak adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of Quepos’ natural wonders.
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3-Hour Damas Mangrove Kayak Tour
For an immersive exploration of Quepos’ captivating mangrove ecosystems, the 3-Hour Damas Mangrove Kayak Tour offers an unparalleled experience.
Ideal for active, nature-loving travelers, this tour takes you on a journey through the island’s lush mangrove forests in small-group pedal kayaks. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to observe a diverse array of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and lizards.
Included in the tour are air-conditioned transportation, all necessary kayak and safety gear, as well as refreshing snacks and bottled water.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per tour, this experience promises an intimate and personalized adventure in the heart of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
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Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour From Manuel Antonio
Offering a unique perspective on Quepos’ coastal landscapes, the Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour from Manuel Antonio immerses travelers in the region’s protected shoreline and marine environments.
Paddling past islands and sea bird nesting grounds, participants can observe parrot fish, sea turtles, and other marine life while snorkeling in the calm waters of Biesanz Bay.
The half-day tour includes a homemade Costa Rican lunch and transportation from Manuel Antonio hotels.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the experience allows visitors to connect with the country’s natural coastal beauty.
With a rating of 3.7 and mixed reviews, the tour’s logistics and organization may need improvement, though the guides and scenery receive positive feedback.
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Kayak Mangrove Tour in Manuel Antonio
Although Quepos is known for its stunning coastline and marine life, the Kayak Mangrove Tour in Manuel Antonio offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the region’s lush, tranquil mangrove ecosystems.
This 3.6-rated tour takes participants on a leisurely kayak paddle through the mangrove-lined waterways, where they can spot diverse wildlife and learn about the ecosystem from a knowledgeable guide.
At $45 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment, transportation, and snacks.
While it’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, most visitors can participate in this immersive, eco-friendly experience.
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Damas Island Kayaking Tour From Manuel Antonio
The Damas Island Kayaking Tour from Manuel Antonio takes visitors on a half-day adventure through Costa Rica’s renowned mangrove ecosystem. Priced from $92 per person, the tour requires a minimum of 2 travelers and can accommodate up to 25.
Paddling the Paquita River with a guide, participants may spot diverse wildlife like reptiles, white-faced monkeys, and herons. Lunch is included, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Manuel Antonio is provided.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
With an overall rating of 3.0 from 2 reviews, the tour offers an enjoyable kayaking experience, though some concerns have been raised about the guide’s speed and limited exploration of the mangrove tunnels.
Read our full review: Damas Island Kayaking Tour From Manuel Antonio Review
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Kayak in the Mangrove
Discover the tranquil mangrove forests of Quepos with a guided kayak tour. For €85.63 per person, you’ll embark on a 3-hour adventure that includes air-conditioned transportation, kayak equipment, and a delicious lunch.
Paddle through the lush, protected mangrove ecosystem, keeping an eye out for diverse wildlife like birds, monkeys, and sloths. This tour has a maximum of 15 travelers and requires a moderate fitness level.
While not recommended for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions, it’s an excellent way to learn about Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
Book your tour today and enjoy the lowest price guarantee.
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The Sum Up
Quepos and Manuel Antonio offer a variety of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. From mangrove tours to ocean adventures, there’s something for all. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, these activities allow you to explore the natural wonders of the region up close. With knowledgeable guides and well-equipped outfitters, you can’t go wrong with any of the options listed.